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Close the door.

Some memories hurt too much to leave sitting on the counter.

Mom calls just after seven.

"Have you eaten?"

I smile despite myself.

"Hello to you too."

"I asked a perfectly reasonable question."

"I had a salad."

"A real salad?"

"Mom."

"That means no."

I laugh. The sound surprises both of us. There's a long pause.

Then, very softly...

"How's your heart?"

The laughter disappears. I look out the apartment window as the sun settles behind the mountains. "I made the right decision."

"I didn't ask about your decision."

Another pause. "I asked about your heart."

I close my eyes.

For the first time since leaving Briar Cove...

I don't trust myself to answer.

***

Week Two…

The spinal rehabilitation unit begins to feel familiar.

Not easy.

Never easy.

But familiar.

Every patient arrives carrying a different version of the same question.

Will my life ever feel normal again?

I don't have answers, only encouragement.

One small goal.